When the time comes to pick a new front door in Chicagoland, there are lots of factors to keep in mind. After all, the front door of your home is essentially the first impression anyone will get when they walk up! With that in mind, let’s break down a few smart tips to consider so you choose the right door for your budget and for your other major needs.
Keep Size in Mind
Firstly, you should choose what size you like. Generally, single-door sizes are standardized at 32 to 36 inches wide. Some extra-large single doors can be 42 inches wide or even more. While we at HX Home Solutions are responsible for sizing your entry door, you should decide what is best for you and your family.
Do you just need a single door? If your opening is too small and you would like it enlarged, we can take care of that complete process from framing, to siding/masonry, to interior drywall and painting needs (we can shrink an opening as well if desired). Do you already have a larger opening? If so, do you want a single door with sidelights or possibly a French (double) door entry system? We always recommend having at least one set of French doors if possible so you can easily move large objects in and out of your home. We can help assist you in making sure you pick what you need!
Choosing a New Front Door in Chicagoland: Material Matters
Next, choose the right new front door for your Chicagoland home by picking the ideal material. You have lots of choices to consider:
- You could choose a wood door, which offers natural beauty. However, wood entry doors are usually the most expensive, require regular examination and maintenance, and typically have weaker warranties. Wood entry doors are sensitive to ambient moisture in the air, plus direct sunlight. That being said, there is no comparison to the natural beauty of a wooden door.
- The first of your two main choices are steel. Steel is very strong and less likely to warp or crack than wood. However, steel doors can also dent; larger dents may require a full door replacement. Note that while good steel doors (like the ProVia entry doors we install) can offer excellent energy efficiency, poorly made steel doors aren’t great in the winter since they will conduct a lot of heat from your home outside. On the upside, steel doors are usually fairly affordable.
- Fiberglass doors are a solid alternative and the “baby bear” to the “momma and papa” bears that are wood and steel entry door systems. These composite doors are durable, affordable, don’t need a lot of maintenance, are less likely to dent, insulate the best, do an excellent job of mimicking wood, and are great in harsh climates. In our opinion, the ProVia Signet is the golden standard of entry doors and our preferred door to install in our market to defend your home against those bitter Chicagoland winters and brutally hot summers.
Style Compatibility
While the material is important, you can’t count aesthetic or style compatibility out. Naturally, your entry door should fit with the architectural look and feel of your house.
To that end, consider the architectural theme of your home when choosing an entry door. Maybe, for example, you need a classic six-panel door to go with your house’s many windows and open style. Or maybe you need something more basic and closed off for a small, compact Chicagoland home. Maybe you want something more modern, or perhaps a Craftsman style with a dentil shelf. It’s up to you, but skilled door installation contractors like HX Home Solutions could help you find the perfect door for your home’s aesthetic style and offer the best installers.
Choosing a New Front Door in Chicagoland: Consider Cost, Too
Lastly, don’t forget to consider your budget! When you buy a front door, you’ll have to keep long-term costs in mind just like the short-term costs. Certain doors may be cheaper upfront but will cost you more in terms of repairs, maintenance, lifespan, and of course energy efficiency later down the road.
Contact HX Home Solutions
Ultimately, the best way to choose a new front door for your Chicagoland home is to contact HX Home Solutions. As experienced entry door installation experts, we’re more than happy to come to your house, give you a free consultation and estimate, and help you pick out the perfect entry door for your needs. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment for your new front door in Chicagoland!
